American White Pelican

Habitat/Range: Pelicans are found in North America. They breed at northern latitudes and mainly feed on isolated freshwater islands. In the winter (non-breeding season) they migrate south to Mexico. You can see these incredible birds at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge during the spring/summer! 

Behavior: Pelicans forage in inland marshes, along lakes or river edges, and in wetlands. Often their foraging sites are 30 miles or more from their nesting island. In the winter, they forage along coastal regions. They mainly eat small fish such as minnows and carp. They are social birds and often forage in large flocks. 

Breeding: Pairs perform courtship rituals each breeding season that involve strutting, bowing, and jabbing displays. Females typically lay a clutch of 1-2 eggs but usually only one, dominant chick survives. Two to 3 weeks after hatching chicks leave the nest and form pods, or créches. Parents will continue to forage and return to the créche to feed their young. 

Conservation: Listing: Least Concern. Pelicans are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty of 1918. In some areas, shoreline erosion along breeding colonies is a threat for local populations.